News Summary
Master Boat Builders Inc. has announced a $7.8 million investment to expand its operations in Mobile County, creating 85 new jobs and enhancing shipbuilding capabilities. This expansion will modernize facilities and support workforce training initiatives, reinforcing the company’s position as a key employer in the region. With the project expected to be operational by October 2025, it reflects the growth of the local economy and the shipbuilding industry. The investment includes significant incentives from local and state authorities, contributing to the overall development of Mobile County’s maritime services sector.
Alabama – Master Boat Builders Inc. has announced a significant investment of $7.8 million to expand its operations in Mobile County, a move that is set to create 85 new jobs and bolster the local economy. This strategic expansion will modernize and enhance the shipbuilding capabilities of the company by introducing a new fabrication shop and a floating drydock.
The expansion project is expected to increase Master Boat Builders’ workforce to over 300 employees, reinforcing the company’s longstanding role as a key employer in the region. The Mobile Chamber of Commerce highlighted that this investment not only strengthens Mobile County’s position in the shipbuilding and maritime services sectors but also contributes to the overall growth of the local business community.
Garrett Rice, the president of Master Boat Builders, emphasized that this investment is a significant commitment to enhancing American shipbuilding capacity. The new facilities will support the construction of critical vessels that play a vital role in U.S. commerce and industry, according to company statements.
Integral to the expansion are various workforce training initiatives and infrastructure improvements, which align with the increasing demand for skilled labor in the maritime and shipbuilding industries. The Alabama Department of Commerce underscored that this initiative is vital for reinforcing Mobile County as a hub for shipbuilding and repair.
The project, which began in October 2024, is expected to be fully operational by October 2025. Mobile Chamber president and CEO, Bradley Byrne, noted that this endeavor is indicative of the growth the local business community is experiencing in tandem with the flourishing port and maritime economy in Mobile County.
Mobile County Commissioner Randall Dueitt pointed out that Master Boat Builders is a significant employer in the area, and the job creation associated with this expansion is particularly noteworthy. The company has a rich history spanning over 45 years, having been established in the aftermath of Hurricane Frederick in 1979. Throughout its history, Master Boat Builders has employed thousands and continues to play an influential role in the local economy.
To support the expansion, Master Boat Builders has been awarded an incentive package totaling nearly $1.9 million. This includes $1.1 million in job tax credits from the Alabama Department of Commerce, in addition to property and sales tax abatements granted by the Mobile County Industrial Authority. Furthermore, a $250,000 incentive was approved by the Mobile County Commission specifically for the construction of new facilities.
This expansion of Master Boat Builders in Mobile County is a positive indication of growth within the shipbuilding industry and is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy, delivering essential job opportunities and enhancing capabilities in American shipbuilding.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Alabama News Center: Master Boat Builders Expands Operations
- AL.com: Alabama Shipbuilder Receives Tax Incentives
- Lagniappe: Commissioners Approve Incentives
- CBS News: Ingalls Shipbuilding Shooting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shipbuilding
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
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